Columbia Explorer Division of Task Force 21 focuses on the adventures of the starships Columbia and Melbourne as they explore the galaxy, respond to crises and proudly fly the flag for the Federation. Formed in the aftermath of the Black Market crisis of 2401, Columbia Division is composed of starships capable of carrying out the various roles and responsibilities dictated by the mandate of the United Federation of Planets. The composition of vessels assigned to the squadron is such that virtually any objective can be completed, whether within the confines of Federation space, or far from safety in far-flung areas of the known galaxy.